Protest ban in Athens

Greek police have tightened security in Athens for the visit of German Chancellor, Angela Merkel. Large sections of the capital have been closed off to contain potential protesters.

Public gatherings have been banned in most of the city centre, within 100 metres of the German leader’s motorcade and at the German Embassy. Two separate demonstrations called by labour unions and opposition parties have been permitted.

7000 police officers are on duty for the visit with the aim to avoid violent clashes breaking out, a sight which has become customary in recent years.

The main Greek private sector union criticised the ban, calling it “unprecedented and undemocratic.”